Leeds Rhinos 'in good shape' as young stars promoted for 2026 women's season

Rhinos, who finished fourth in Betfred Women’s Super League last term, have yet to announce any new signings and three players - Beth Dainton, Elle Frain and Jenna Greening - have left the club. But two of Rhinos academy’s brightest young prospects have stepped up into the first team squad and, with another set to join them, Forsell is upbeat about prospects for 2026.

“We start pre-season in good shape,” Forsell insisted. “It has been great to have retained the majority of our squad, with only three players leaving and we hope to make further additions before the start of the season.”

Academy half-back Lill Seal and prop Pauliane Wambalu have been promoted to the first team, while full-back Amelia Hirst will be on a transition schedule, training with the senior side and under-19s. All three remain eligible for the academy in 2026.

Forsell said: “Lill and Pauliane have really impressed in the academy. They need to be challenged and I think being in the women’s environment week-in, week-out will do that and hopefully we’ll see them represent the first team in 2026. Lill is one of the best players to come through our junior pathway so I’m excited to see how she progresses in the first team environment.

“Pauliane is a very exciting young forward who has impressed everyone on the coaching staff and we are delighted to give her this opportunity. She is aggressive and dynamic and it will be good for her to step up and continue to learn and develop.”

Of Hirst, who joined Rhinos from the Stanningley community club, Forsell added: “Amelia was outstanding last season and won our academy player of the year. She’s developing as an athlete, as well as a player and giving her that exposure will be really good.

“The three were chosen because of their athletic capabilities and what they are like as people. They are committed and are driven and they have competitive desire. They want to be the best versions of themselves and to push on.”